Introduction
Kondakarla Ava Bird Sanctuary, situated in the Visakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh, is one of India’s most celebrated avian sanctuaries. Kondakarla Ava is a pristine natural freshwater lake and bird sanctuary nestled at the foot of the Eastern Ghats near Anakapalle in Visakhapatnam district.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Sanctuary Name | Kondakarla Ava Bird Sanctuary |
| State & District | Andhra Pradesh (Visakhapatnam) |
| Year of Notification | 2002 |
| Total Protected Area | 18.3 sq km |
| Rivers & Waterbodies | Sarada River basin and Kondakarla Ava natural freshwater lake |
| Nearest Airport | Visakhapatnam International Airport (VTZ) – 50 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Anakapalle Railway Station (AKP) – 15 km / Visakhapatnam Junction (VSKP) – 55 km |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
Location
Kondakarla Ava Bird Sanctuary is geographically located in the Visakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh. Located 15 km from Anakapalle town off the Visakhapatnam-Chennai highway.
History and Year of Notification
The sanctuary was officially notified in 2002 under Indian wildlife conservation frameworks. Managed as an eco-tourism and bird sanctuary zone by the AP Tourism and Forest Department in collaboration with local village panchayats.
Landscape, Geography and Habitat
Natural freshwater wetland blanketed with lotus and lily blooms, submerged aquatic vegetation, and coconut palm fringe.
Flora and Bird Species
Records over 100 bird species. Key waterbirds include Pheasant-tailed Jacana, Bronze-winged Jacana, Grey Heron, Purple Heron, Moorhen, White-breasted Waterhen, Cotton Teal, Common Teal, Pochard, and Cormorant.
Other Wild Animals & Wildlife
Fishing Cat, Smooth-coated Otter, Jungle Cat, Golden Jackal, Water Monitor Lizard, Indian Flapshell Turtle, and freshwater carp species.
Rivers and Water Bodies
The sanctuary’s ecosystem is sustained by: Sarada River basin and Kondakarla Ava natural freshwater lake.
Other Attractions Nearby
Key tourist attractions and historical sites near Kondakarla Ava Bird Sanctuary include: Anakapalle Jaggery Market (15 km), Simhachalam Temple (55 km), RK Beach Vizag (55 km), Submarine Museum (56 km).
Weather and Climate
Coastal humid climate. Monsoons (July–September), warm summers (28°C to 38°C), and pleasant winter season (18°C to 28°C).
How to Reach (Airport & Railway Access)
- Nearest Airport: Visakhapatnam International Airport (VTZ) – 50 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Anakapalle Railway Station (AKP) – 15 km / Visakhapatnam Junction (VSKP) – 55 km
- Road Connectivity: Located 15 km from Anakapalle town off the Visakhapatnam-Chennai highway.
Best Time for Birdwatching
The optimal window to explore Kondakarla Ava Bird Sanctuary is between October to March.
Accommodation
APTDC Haritha Resort at Rushikonda Beach Vizag, hotels in Anakapalle town.. Visitors are advised to book official state government eco-tourism stays in advance.
Last Updated: August 2026